Elm Sawfly

Natural Habitat

Found in deciduous forests, wooded areas, and parks across North America, particularly near elm and willow trees.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on the sap of various deciduous trees (elm, willow, birch) after stripping bark; larvae feed on the foliage of the same trees.

Behavior Patterns

Active during late spring and summer. Unlike bees or wasps, they lack a sting but possess powerful mandibles for stripping bark. They exhibit complete metamorphosis with larvae resembling caterpillars.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not sting, though they can deliver a pinch with their mandibles if handled. They are minor forest pests that can occasionally defoliate trees but rarely cause permanent damage.

Identified on: 4/12/2026